CVE-2011-3825 in Zend
Summary
by MITRE
Zend Framework 1.11.3 in Zend Server CE 5.1.0 allows remote attackers to obtain sensitive information via a direct request to a .php file, which reveals the installation path in an error message, as demonstrated by Validate.php and certain other files.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/11/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2011-3825 represents a sensitive information disclosure flaw within the Zend Framework version 1.11.3, which was packaged in Zend Server CE 5.1.0. This security weakness arises from the framework's inadequate error handling mechanisms that expose critical system information to remote attackers through improperly configured error messages. The vulnerability specifically affects the framework's validation components where direct access to certain php files results in the revelation of the complete installation path of the web application. This type of information disclosure vulnerability is particularly concerning as it provides attackers with precise knowledge of the server's file structure and deployment environment. The issue manifests when attackers make direct requests to files such as Validate.php and similar validation components within the framework, causing the system to display error messages that contain the absolute path where the application is installed. This exposure of installation paths can significantly aid attackers in planning subsequent exploitation attempts and understanding the target environment's configuration.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-209, which specifically addresses "Information Exposure Through an Error Message" and falls under the broader category of information disclosure vulnerabilities. The flaw demonstrates a classic lack of proper error handling and sanitization within the framework's request processing pipeline. When the system encounters an error condition during the processing of direct file requests, it fails to implement adequate error masking or logging practices that would prevent sensitive path information from being exposed to external parties. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the application level and requires no special privileges or complex exploitation techniques to be leveraged by an attacker. The error messages generated by the framework contain sufficient information to map the server's file system structure, which can be used for further reconnaissance activities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it creates a foundation for more sophisticated attacks within the target environment. Attackers who obtain the installation path can use this information to craft targeted attacks against specific components of the application, potentially leading to privilege escalation, data breaches, or system compromise. The exposure of the installation path may also reveal the underlying operating system and web server configuration, providing additional attack surface information. This vulnerability particularly affects organizations running Zend Server CE 5.1.0 and using Zend Framework 1.11.3, where the lack of proper error handling configuration leaves systems vulnerable to passive reconnaissance. The attack vector is straightforward and can be executed by any remote user with basic internet connectivity, making it an attractive target for automated scanning tools and opportunistic attackers. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1212 - Exploitation for Credential Access and T1083 - File and Directory Discovery, as it enables both information gathering and potential credential access through path exposure.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2011-3825 should focus on implementing proper error handling and response configuration within the Zend Framework environment. Organizations should ensure that error messages are properly sanitized and that no sensitive path information is exposed to end users or external parties. The recommended approach includes configuring the framework to display generic error messages to users while logging detailed technical information internally for system administrators. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and access controls to prevent direct access to framework internal files. The upgrade path involves moving to newer versions of the Zend Framework where these error handling issues have been addressed and corrected. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring systems can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. Organizations should also conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify similar information disclosure vulnerabilities within their application environments, ensuring that error handling configurations align with security best practices established by industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.